9/11Tribute beautifully staged in Lock Haven

LOCK HAVEN, PA – Lock Haven did its part as communities all across the United States joined in remembrance Saturday as America marked the 20th anniversary of the Sept. 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States.

In Lock Haven two longstanding events were centered at Triangle Park: the Clinton County Veterans Affairs office, in conjunction with VETS Plus, held its 9/11 Moving Tribute and the Rotary Club of Downtown Lock Haven placed Angel Light luminaries.

The Rotary event saw the placement and lighting of 140 luminaries throughout Triangle Park, what is believed a record since the program’s inception in 2014. It began when Barb Schmouder suggested a night of luminaries and club member Cindy Love proposed the luminaries be part of a local 9/11 observance. This year’s program was spearheaded by club president Marianne Lotfi.

Many of the luminaries were personalized to honor loved ones, to remember someone who passed away, or say thank you in a unique way to recognize September 11. Club member Carmen Banfill will be disposing of the luminary paper bags by the solemn burning of each one.

The Moving Tribute began before daybreak as the Lock Haven University ROTC unit began the annual run carrying American flags. Throughout the day runners, walkers and cyclists will keep the flags moving throughout the community’s downtown in remembrance of 9/11. A delegation of local volunteer firemen helped to complete the daylong walk through the downtown.